Then we would obviously choose the first one. Neither would get punished though, because they were started without knowing the other existed. However, if it was created a few hours or a day or more after the original, then we'd have to close the duplicate because it was made without searching if an older one was already there.

It would be good to have the ability to merge similar topics for sure, but at present we don't have that tool.

The best way to ensure it doesn't happen is to search thoroughly before making new topics, and make sure the topic you make is a good discussion, especially if it is in the Stands